Judge Rebukes Ghislaine Maxwell for Including Victim Names in Court Filings
NEW YORK (AP) — On Monday, Ghislaine Maxwell, who was closely associated with Jeffrey Epstein, faced criticism from a judge for disclosing confidential victim identities in her court documents. These documents are part of her efforts to overturn her 2021 conviction for sex trafficking and secure release from her 20-year prison sentence.
Judge Paul A. Engelmayer stated that the exhibits accompanying Maxwell’s habeas petition, filed independently, will remain sealed. This measure aims to protect the victims’ identities, and all future submissions from Maxwell must also be filed under seal.
The judge emphasized to Maxwell that she is strictly forbidden from including any information in public filings that could identify victims not publicly named during her trial.
Attempts to reach Maxwell’s attorney, David Markus, for comment were unsuccessful.
Maxwell submitted her petition last Wednesday, just as the Justice Department began releasing investigative records related to her and Epstein, following the enactment of the Epstein Files Transparency Act.
Maxwell’s Allegations and Filing Deadlines
Maxwell argues that the trial was marred by withheld exonerating evidence and false testimony, resulting in what she describes as a “complete miscarriage of justice.” Judge Engelmayer has given her until February 17, 2026, to decide whether to include information from the Epstein files in her petition, with an amended filing due by March 31, 2026.
Ongoing Release of Epstein Files
The Justice Department’s gradual release of documents concerning the Epstein case has been a contentious issue. The process, which involves redacting sensitive victim information, has been criticized for its slow pace. Lawmakers who supported the transparency act expressed frustration with the lack of context and the redaction of many documents.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer has called for legal action against the Justice Department, accusing the Trump administration of a “blatant cover-up” in its handling of the files. Schumer introduced a resolution urging the Senate to pursue lawsuits ensuring compliance with the transparency law.
Missing and Restored Documents
Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche defended the limited release of documents, citing the need to protect Epstein’s abuse survivors. He assured that the administration intends to meet its legal obligations while ensuring victim privacy.
Recently, several files, including a photograph featuring Donald Trump and Epstein, were temporarily removed from the Justice Department’s public webpage. The removal was due to concerns over potential victim identification. These files were later restored after confirming no victims were depicted.
Blanche reiterated that there is no intention to withhold information regarding Trump or others associated with Epstein, countering narratives suggesting otherwise. He criticized the sudden interest from Democrats in the Epstein files, labeling it a “hoax.”
